Global Warming

Research Paper # 104551

Environmental Studies
Hot Topics > Global Warming

Global Warming

A look at some of the issues involved in the global warming debate.

1,086 words () | 8 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how the argument over global warming is far from settled, though the scientific consensus is clearly that global warming is a reality, that a contributory element is the burning of fossil fuels and other human activities, and that a point may be reached in a relatively short time beyond which corrective action will not be effective. The paper also looks at how critics of the theory challenge all of these elements, often denying that global warming is taking place at all, or denying that human activity could have any such effect on the weather worldwide. In addition, the paper discusses how those who support the theory want action taken to reduce the burning of fossil fuels and to try to reverse the damage that has already been done, while many critics believe that this is only a political issue and that taking action will harm the economy without producing anything worthwhile.

From the Paper:

"Baird (2005) notes the course of the discussion on the issue and states that global warming is real and that it is progressive and gradual. The temperature of the earth has increased by one degree Fahrenheit in the past century, with the pace accelerating during the last two decades. Baird also stats that this warming cannot be explained without considering the action of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases trap heat near the surface of the earth and increase the temperature. The source of these gases is clear, given that our factories, power plants and automobiles burn coal and gasoline to produce millions of tons of carbon dioxide that is emitted into the atmosphere. "

Sample of Sources Used:

Baird, S.L. (2005). Global warming: If you can't stand the heat: All of the top ten warmest years on record have occurred since 1990. The Technology Teacher, 65, 13-16.
Choo, K. (2005, August-September). Heat wave: global warming is more than a threat. Glaciers are retreating. Sea levels are rising. Permafrost is melting. Heat-sensitive coral reefs, home to a diverse range of ocean wildlife, are bleaching and dying. Planning, 71(8), 8-11.
Colbron, M. (2007, January 1). How attitudes shape our future: Our feelings and attitudes about the future and its risks can lead to either triumph or disaster. Using global warming as a case study, a psychologist explains why. The Futurist. Retrieved June 10, 2007, from http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-156653136.html
Gilbreath, J. (2004). Global warming kills. Environmental Health Perspectives, 112(3), 160.
Growing scientific evidence of global warming becoming an 'urgent priority' for business and other leaders, concludes new conference board report; are we approaching the warmest period in 36 million years? (2004, September 7). PR Newswire. Retrieved June 10, 2007, from http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-121679233.html